New Delhi, Dec. 29 -- Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has appealed for the host nation's supporters to stop whistling the team at the Africa Cup of Nations.

"It's not normal for the supporters to whistle," Hakimi said Sunday before Morocco's final group game against Zambia on Monday. "We need that 12th man."

The Moroccan players were subjected to whistles from the home fans at half time and again at full time after their disappointing 1-1 draw against Mali on Friday.

"We need the fans," Hakimi said. "But we have to respect our rivals. They're not easy opponents."

Morocco, the highest ranked African team at No. 11, is considered the favorite for the 35th edition of the tournament after reaching the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup. The A...